Conditioning Hiking Series

Overview: The Olympia Branch Conditioning Hiking Series Course (CHS) is designed hikers who can complete hikes of 4-5 miles and want to improve their fitness level working up to day hikes of nine+ miles. The course provides access to hikes of increasing length and elevation gain from April through mid-July and requires completion of a graduation hike of nine+ miles. The course creates a small-group environment in which hikers can build friendships by hiking with many of the same people into the summer. Completing the course requires commitment to fitness activities in addition to course hikes.  Completing the course requires commitment to fitness activities in addition to course hikes.

Graduation Requirements:

• Complete an orientation class (mandatory for all participants who have not completed the Olympia CHS course before.  If you have completed the Olympia CHS course orientation in the past, you do not need to complete it a second time).
• Have a current Mountaineers Stewardship Credit badge
• Complete The Mountaineers online “Low impact recreation” course
• Complete a minimum of two hiking trips per month from April through June. The distance and elevation gain for the hikes is designed to grow each month
• Complete a graduation hike in July
• Record your activities on a monthly course activity survey

Where and When?: Our hike destinations vary depending on conditions and may visit a variety of areas including the Columbia Gorge, Mt. Rainier, Eastern Washington, the Kitsap peninsula, Mount St. Helens, and the Issaquah Alps. Our goal is to offer hikes on each weekend day of the month as well as occasional weekday offerings for those with flexible schedules. 

How far? How high? How fast?:

Pacing will vary between 1.5 and 2.5 miles per hour, depending on conditions. Hike leaders will post their target pace range for each hike, and you're encouraged to contact them if you have concerns. 

Active Membership Required:  needs-based scholarships are available if either the membership or course fee would be a financial burden.

Questions?:   Please contact CHS Chair Dan Miller at mudcoastie02@comcast.net